Esther W. Engle

Mrs. Esther W. Engle, 97, formerly a resident of the Sanford Home, passed away Friday evening June 10, 2011 at the River Ridge Living Center in Amsterdam. Born in Gloversville, NY on January 5, 1914 a daughter of the late John and Anna Hall Watson. She was a lifelong area resident and was a graduate of Gloversville High School. She went on to receive her Teaching degree at Cortland Normal School and started her teaching career at the former Scotch Bush School. She later taught at Mariaville Central School, the Kline District School and retired from the former Fort Johnson Elementary School in 1969. Esther married Melvin Engle on August 29, 1940 and resided on their family farm in Pattersonville for nearly fifty years. He passed away on December 13, 1989. Esther was very active in the Florida Reformed Church in Minaville, NY. She was a 69 year member of the church where she taught Sunday School and was involved in the Junior and Senior Choir. She also was a member of the Guild for Women's Services. She was a singer and soloist at many weddings throughout her life and also held weekly Bible Studies out of her home. She was an avid gardener and enjoyed being a literacy volunteer for many years also working out of her home in Tribes Hill, NY. Survivor's include; Three daughters, Susan A Francisco of Tribes Hill, NY, Judy Brookman Jack of Fultonville, NY and Nancy E. Soulia Erwin of Pittsford, NY. Four grandchildren, Thomas Francisco, Bethany Francisco, David Soulia and Lanette Cypher. Five great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. She was predeceased by a sister, Kathryn Bills and a brother W. Richard Watson. Funeral services will be held on Saturday June 18, 2011 at 11:00A.M. at the Florida Reformed Church, 6255 State Hwy 30S, Minaville Amsterdam, NY. Private Interment of cremated remains will be in Chuctanunda Cemetery, Minaville, NY. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Florida Reformed Church c/ o the Betz, Rossi & Bellinger Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park Ave, Amsterdam, NY 12010.